How to Replace Hot Water Heater Lines
When the piping on your water heater leaks, whether from corrosion or old age, it needs replacing. Quick-connect-type plumbing connections have eliminated the need to have a welder "sweat" pipes together, making it easier for you to take an active role in plumbing maintenance. You can use these quick-connect fittings on piping and valves to expedite the replacement of your water heater's piping. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pipe cutter
- Hacksaw
- Supply/inlet line connection pipe
- Measuring tape
- Indelible marker
Instructions
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1
Find the valve that controls the flow of water into the section of water heater line to be replaced. If there is no separate valve, shut down the water supply for the house. Turn off the breaker to the water heater at the breaker panel.
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2
Open both a hot and a cold faucet and allow the water to run until the flow stops. This drains water from the line.
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3
Hold the pressure relief valve on the bottom of the water heater open for 10 seconds to discharge the pressure in the water heater. Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the supply and inlet pipes at the location where the new water pipe will be installed.
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4
Unscrew the piped connections from the water heater and remove the old sections of pipe. Screw the quick-connect fittings onto water heater inlet and supply nipples.
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5
Mark the end of the remaining household pipe, per the instructions with the valve, to indicate the depth to which the old pipe will penetrate the ball valve. Mark the new pipe ends with an indelible marker, based on the instructions that come with the quick-connect fittings, to indicate the depth that the pipe will penetrate the quick-connect valve.
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6
Push the quick-connect valve onto the end of the piping that's not being replaced and twist the fitting 1/4 turn to ensure it seats. Insert the new copper tubing into the open end of the already-present fittings atop the water heater.
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7
Turn on the supply line for your water heater and check for leaks.
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Tips & Warnings
Mop up any water spilled during the work.
